Trains from Reading to Birmingham
Travel from Reading to Birmingham with CrossCountry and take advantage of Advance tickets even on the day of travel, up to 15 minutes before departure.
Trains from Reading to Birmingham New Street take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Trains service this route during the week and over the weekend. The journey takes you through some of the prettiest countryside in the UK, past sections of the River Thames and through towns such as Didcot and Leamington Spa.
Buy tickets from Reading to Birmingham today
Travelling from Reading to Birmingham
The UK’s second largest city, Birmingham is a great destination to discover if you are looking for a city that offers a little bit of everything. From its modern shopping malls and copious bars and restaurants, to its many museums and art galleries, Birmingham’s attractions bring all kinds of visitors.
Yes, all CrossCountry services between Reading and Birmingham are direct.
While travelling from Reading to Birmingham, you can take advantage of the extensive range of amenities found on all CrossCountry trains. These include table seats, charging points and luggage storage. Passengers can also use the at-seat service that provides light refreshments throughout the journey. For the next level of comfort onboard our trains, we recommend treating yourself to a First Class ticket.
Birmingham New Street is accessible to those with a range of mobility needs. The entire station offers step-free access, plus ramps for train access and special assistance getting to and from platforms. There are also accessible ticket office counters on the main concourse.
Birmingham New Street Station is conveniently located in the heart of the city, providing excellent access to the entire city and all its attractions.
The station has waiting rooms and baby changing facilities available for families. You may also wish to make use of the First Class lounge if you have purchased the appropriate ticket.
For further information about Birmingham Station, check out our station guide.
Once you have arrived in Birmingham
Onward travel: Trams, Taxis and Buses in Birmingham
The Midland Metro Tram service connects at Birmingham New Street Station, so getting a tram is a convenient way to continue your journey elsewhere in the Midlands. For those staying in Birmingham, the bus service in the centre of the city will take you almost everywhere. For those who prefer to travel to their next destination directly, there’s a taxi rank available at the station. You can also book a taxi with one of the multitude of local cab companies.
Shopping in Birmingham
Shoppers of all ilk will love shopping in Birmingham. From modern high street shops and vintage clothing markets to designer outlets and department stores, Birmingham has it all. The world-famous Jewellery Quarter is a great place to go if you want to buy jewellery, while the large shopping malls, like the Bullring and Grand Central, are the places to go for all your shopping needs.
Culture in Birmingham
Birmingham is a wonderful destination for avid culture vultures to explore. There are a plethora of museums and galleries to tour, including the Thinktank (perfect for families) and the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery (home to Renaissance masterpieces). If you have a sweet tooth, why not take the time to go to Cadbury World, where you can find out how your favourite treats are made? The city is a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities, which has created a varied food scene. The Balti Triangle serves some of the best curries in the UK and if a curry doesn’t take your fancy, there are plenty of American, Greek, Italian, Asian, Jamaican and Ethiopian restaurants to choose from.
Spending time in Birmingham?
Whether you’re looking to have a fun day out or are planning a longer stay, our Birmingham Guide can help you plan the perfect trip!
